Layered Pasta Salad: A Vibrant Summer Essential
Layered Pasta Salad is a timeless summer favorite. No barbecue, picnic, or potluck is complete without this crowd-pleaser. With many variations available, this version takes it up a notch by adding a vibrant mix of pasta, fresh vegetables, and savory ham, all tossed in a tangy dressing. It’s a visually appealing and flavorful dish that’s guaranteed to impress your guests. Plus, it’s perfect for making ahead, saving you time and stress when hosting or heading out to your event.
Ingredients
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Salad:
- 3 cups cooked and drained macaroni pasta
- 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- ½ cup thawed frozen peas
- ⅓ cup chopped celery
- 1½ cups diced ham
- ⅓ cup black olives
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, white wine vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Layer the Salad: In a large trifle or glass dish, begin layering your ingredients. Start with the chopped romaine lettuce, followed by the pasta, red bell pepper, red onion, peas, celery, ham, black olives, and finish with the dressing. Top the salad with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 5 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Toss gently before serving for a perfect blend of flavors.
This Layered Pasta Salad is not only a visual treat but also a fresh, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any summer gathering!
